Liquid Ejecting Apparatus With Staged Power-Saving Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid ejecting apparatuses waste electric power during the transition from printing operation to power-saving mode due to inefficient power management.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus transitions to a first mode with reduced power consumption after printing, followed by a second mode with even lower power consumption, allowing quicker return to printing operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the liquid ejecting apparatus transitions to power-saving mode immediately after printing operation, then electric power consumption is reduced, but the time required to return to printing operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power-saving feature is divided into two distinct modes: first power-saving mode and second power-saving mode. The first mode provides a balance between power reduction and quick resumption, while the second mode offers deeper power savings with longer resumption time. This segmentation allows the system to offer multiple power-saving options rather than a single binary choice.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between operational states based on user selection: printing operation → first power-saving mode → second power-saving mode. The controller adjusts the power supply state and resumption characteristics according to the selected mode, making the power-saving behavior adaptive rather than fixed.
2Speed
If the liquid ejecting apparatus maintains printing operation readiness, then quick resumption is achieved, but electric power is wasted during standby period
Solution Approach 1:
The standby period is divided into two phases with different power consumption levels: first power-saving mode for immediate resumption needs, and second power-saving mode for extended idle periods. This segmentation allows the system to reduce power waste during standby while maintaining the capability for quick resumption when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power supply parameter to two different levels depending on the selected mode. In the first mode, power is reduced to a level that maintains quick resumption capability. In the second mode, power is reduced further for maximum energy savings during extended idle periods.
3Device complexity
If the liquid ejecting apparatus uses a single power-saving mode, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different power needs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system is segmented into two distinct modes with different characteristics, allowing the controller to select the appropriate mode based on user needs. This segmentation provides adaptability to different power consumption requirements while keeping each individual mode relatively simple to implement.
Solution Approach 2:
The power management system serves multiple functions through the two modes: the first mode handles scenarios requiring quick resumption, while the second mode handles scenarios prioritizing maximum power savings. This multi-functionality allows a single power management system to adapt to various operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid ejecting apparatus is configured to transition to a first mode in which less electric power is consumed per unit period than in the printing operation and a second mode in which less electric power is consumed per unit period than in the first mode. The second mode is started at the end of a predetermined period of time following completion of the printing operation. The first mode is started after the printing operation is completed and before the second mode is started. The period of time taken for the liquid ejecting apparatus to return to the printing operation from the first mode is shorter than the period of time taken for the liquid ejecting apparatus to return to the printing operation from the second mode.